With the onset of the breeding season just around the corner, we as breeders should be planning well in advance for what we are about to embark upon.

1. Pregnancy status on any mare bred last year.

2. Regrouping mares into generalized order as to better manage the individual verses the group.

a. In chronological order by foaling date
b. Barren/maiden groups
c. age

3. Any mare not in foal should be prepared for her breeding now. A few items that should not be overlooked:

a. Uterine culture (prior to anestrus)
b. Uterine biopsy  (optional)
c. Ultrasonic and/or reproductive exam
d. Vaginal exam

e. Cervical exam
f. Speculum

4. All barren and/or maiden mares should be placed under an artificial lighting program no less than 75 days prior to the first desired breeding date.

5. All mares should be fed a well balanced ration 12% to 14% protein with a free-choice mineral with added (C.M.Z.) Copper, Manganese and Zinc.  Exodus Breeders Corporation offers a Breeder Pak just for this situation that includes less with enhanced chelated minerals for better absorption and utilization in the body.

6. Good clean warmed water (not frozen with ice floating in the tank). This will allow the mare's system to work more efficiently during this period.

 
Remember two valuable points:

1. You can only expect to get out of them, what you put into them.